SPRINGFIELD, Mo., February 27, 2025 — Drury is proud to announce the launch of its new Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Management and Leadership, set to begin in Fall 2025. This interdisciplinary degree will equip students with the knowledge and leadership skills necessary to excel in emergency management, fire service, and emergency medical services.
The program offered through Drury GO has three specialized tracks — Emergency Management, Fire Service, and Emergency Medical Services — allowing students to tailor their education to their career goals. Developed in response to feedback from public safety leaders, this degree enhances Drury’s ability to serve professionals in critical community roles.
Jarett Metheny, Public Safety Leadership Program Coordinator, has been spearheading the launch of this program. “We are excited to expand our commitment to public safety education with the launch of our new online bachelor’s degree program in Emergency Services Management and Leadership,” he said. “Building on the success of our master’s program in Public Service and Safety Leadership and our long-standing programs in law enforcement, this new multidisciplinary degree equips current and aspiring professionals with the knowledge and leadership skills needed to navigate complex public safety challenges.”
Graduates will be equipped to lead emergency response teams, develop crisis management strategies, and collaborate with agencies to enhance community resilience. The curriculum integrates practical training with leadership principles, preparing students for dynamic and high-stakes environments. “Ensuring public safety requires collaboration across all emergency service disciplines,” continued Metheny. “This program provides a unique opportunity for professionals to learn together, fostering teamwork to better service our communities.
The Bachelor of Science in Emergency Services Management and Leadership also aligns with Drury’s broader public safety education pathway, including opportunities for concurrent credit toward the Master in Public Service and Safety Leadership. This initiative provides students with a streamlined route to advance their education and career prospects.
As part of its commitment to public safety education, Drury GO is also launching the Boots to Bachelor’s Scholarship, providing financial assistance to firefighters and their dependents pursuing a degree. This renewable scholarship is available each term — fall, spring, and summer — and supports new, transfer, and returning (readmitted) students. Award amounts vary based on enrollment with up to $500 per semester. Recipients also benefit from specialized academic advisement and flexible course options.
“The Boots to Bachelor’s Scholarship is an investment in the professional growth of firefighters and their families,” said Merri Sutherland, the Springfield Regional Director for Drury GO. “Drury GO remains committed to supporting those who serve our communities.”
For more information about the program and to request details about enrollment, contact Jarett Metheny at jmetheny002@drury.edu or Merri Sutherland msutherland@drury.edu.
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Media Contact: Kevin Kropf, Ed.D., Executive Vice President of Enrollment Management, Marketing & Communications | Office: (417) 873-7524 | Email: kkropf@drury.edu